In a carefully choreographed move timed with its 2025 interim results, Cathay Pacific has quietly turned a significant corner in its fleet renewal strategy. The airline has exercised its long-held rights under the initial 2013 order, adding 14 additional Boeing 777-9 jets to its order book, not surprisingly, following the aircraft’s transition into its next phase of testing.
Cathay’s order for 14 additional Boeing 777-9 Aircraft
In a deal revealed today by Boeing and Cathay Pacific, the airline has exercised its options for 14 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft . This extension brings Cathay’s firm commitment for the next-generation 777‑9 to 35 aircraft, with options for seven more, making it one of the most significant moves in the 777X programme.
Originally, Cathay’s 2013 order for 21 777‑9s was set for delivery between 2021 and 2024. However, repeated delays within Boeing’s programme pushed the timeline back—now Cathay expects its first delivery in early 2027, with the whole fleet arriving through 2034.
Cathay, which had shrunk during the pandemic, is now reinforcing its long-haul backbone, preparing to retire its ageing 777-300ERs with a modern, capacity-rich replacement. The wider‐cabin 777‑9, with GE Aerospace GE9X engines, folding wingtips, and new premium cabin hardware, is billed as its future flagship aircraft, with the first sets of cabins expected to debut on arrival in 2027 and beyond.
Ronald Lam, Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer, said,
We plan to expand and renew our fleet with the additional 777-9 aircraft, enabling us to continue our rich history of connecting the world with our Hong Kong hub. Cathay Pacific aims to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with Boeing and leverage the world-class features of the new 777-9 as we strive to become the world’s best premium airline.
Industry analysts note that Cathay has been eyeing a wide-body order since late 2024, with Airbus A350 winning the previous contests for Cathay’s long-haul dominance. This latest 777‑9 order effectively answers that round of speculation, at least for now, in favour of the 777X and reaffirms the airline’s enduring alliance with Boeing, even as Airbus continues to offer compelling alternatives.
Still, the road ahead isn’t entirely smooth. Deliveries remain years away, and the 777X programme continues to wrestle with delays and certification hurdles. While Boeing expects the first delivery to Lufthansa in 2026, Cathay’s slot is expected shortly after, and uncertainty lingers. However, for Cathay, claiming purchase rights now provides clarity and commitment to its long-term fleet design.
Bottomline
Cathay Pacific has increased its Boeing 777X order from 21 to 35 aircraft. They will now stand as the biggest operator of the 777X in Asia when the fleet is complete, with Singapore Airlines shortly behind them. This potentially should also mark the turning point for the airline to launch its new products on the new flagship aircraft.
Are you excited about Cathay Pacific’s 777-9s joining the fleet?
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